Google Glass Already Banned?

A Seattle bar recently declared that Google’s new Google Glass would be banned from its premises. Still months away from launch, it looks like Google Glass may be getting more attention than Google anticipated — some of which is stranger than others.

Seattle’s 5 Point Cafe posted a Facebook message which stated, “For the record, The 5 Point is the first Seattle business to ban in advance Google Glasses. And [butt] kickings will be encouraged for violators.”

It seems that it’s mostly a publicity stunt by the cafe, but the owners have made it very clear that the establishment will be a Google Glass free zone. Something even more intriguing is the fact that others on the web believe this is the first in a long line of businesses that will ban Google’s new headgear.

“The 5 Point appeals to a wide variety of people … Some of the tech geeks come here, we’re close to Amazon … It’s OK if you wear them … I just don’t want them worn inside,” Meinert said.

So what could Meinert have against Google Glass? It seems the owner is concerned with primarily preserving patrons’ privacy.

“You have to understand the culture of The 5 Point which is sometimes seedy, maybe [even a] notorious place and I think people want to go there and be not known,” he said.

“Part of this is a joke, to be funny on Facebook and get a reaction, but part of it is serious because we don’t let people film other people or take photos unwanted of other people in the bar because it’s kind of a private place people go,” Meinert continued.

Personally, I think other reports of The 5 Point’s Facebook announcement have been blown out of proportion. I’m glad Meinert found a way to drive up sales, but any concerns over privacy should be long gone by now.

Whether or not Google Glass is a hit this Holiday season one thing is for sure, either in people’s hands or on their faces, cameras are everywhere, and privacy in public (or a semi-private bar) doesn’t exist anymore. If you’re doing something stupid and I’m near you, I’m taking a picture or filming a video and uploading it to YouTube and Facebook.

Chase Williams is a serial entrepreneur, professional procrastinator, dreamer, explorer and risk taker. He's been weightless aboard a NASA C9-B aircraft and his head hasn't quite come back down from the upper-atmosphere. To keep up with his low-oxygen chatter, follow him on Twitter @ChaseHWill